Have you bought a new car? If so, it’s worth learning how to keep your car safe before you hit the roads. With servicing costs and fuel prices now sky-high for motorists in the UK, getting prepared now could save you thousands of pounds in the long run.
One of the most important steps in the process is protecting and maintaining your first car. No matter the age, model or make of your first car, we’ve covered the basics.
Looking after your first car: Our 5 top tips
1) Check it regularly
Firstly, you should get familiar with routine maintenance checks on your car. These keep things running smoothly and could help to prevent costly repairs further down the line too.
Make sure you know how to check essential components like oil levels, engine coolant levels, and brake fluid. Get familiar with your vehicle’s owner manual to find out the specific recommended service intervals for its make and model. You should also try to learn about the typical dashboard warning lights and what they mean. Additionally, consider investing in paint protection film to keep your car’s exterior in top condition and shield it from scratches and damage.
Think about where you are going to park it too? Will it be safe there or will it be exposed to any extreme weather for example? It may be worth buying a car cover if it is going to be parked up for some length of time and there are other accessories too that can help protect it.
2) Tax and Insurance
Try to embrace the monthly costs incurred with owning a car.
Even if this new financial commitment might first feel like a burden, remember that it’s essential for a smooth and cost-effective long-term experience. Along with making sure to tax your vehicle, you might choose to pay for breakdown cover and legal assistance too.
When it comes to insurance, you should make sure you only choose comprehensive cover for your first few years of driving. It’s only possible to keep your car safe with the right car insurance, especially when it comes to unexpected circumstances.
3) Be tyre savvy
Don’t let your guard down when it comes to tyre safety.
Maintaining proper tyre pressure is critical for longevity, safety, and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. It’s always worth checking your tyre pressure as regularly as possible, adjusting as and when you notice a loss of pressure. You should also keep an eye on your tyre condition, particularly in winter. Deeper tread means more grip on rain, snow and ice.
We recommend keeping one of the latest tyre pressure gauges in your vehicle, even if it’s fitted with a tyre pressure monitoring system. If you have the space in your boot, it’s worth keeping a spare wheel and tyre there too.
4) Drive safely
Safe driving habits keep you, your car, and other road users as safe as possible.
Stick to the speed limit, keep a safe distance behind other cars, and try to avoid driving aggressively. Good habits behind the wheel reduce the strain and wear on mechanical components in your vehicle, so you’ll be able to drive for longer between services.
Always check the weather forecast before setting off on longer drives, especially at night, and adjust your speed accordingly to reduce the risk of sliding out.
5) Prepare for emergencies
Finally, expecting the unexpected could help you to protect your car, no matter what the road throws your way. Keeping essential items like jumper cables, a spare tyre and a jack could get you back on the road quickly if something goes wrong.
With the right supplies and an idea of basic car maintenance techniques, you’ll be able to spot and identify any smaller issues before they exacerbate. Keep your car covered with all the necessary policies – and don’t forget to check your tyres!
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